Species

By Bobyellow - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=106773651

Alligator mississippiensis

One of two extant species of alligator, the American alligator are apex predators that are traditionally found in freshwater in temperate regions. They are olive black in colour with short, thick limbs, a round snout and have no visible teeth when their mouth is closed. They are social animals, living in small, close-knit groups. Hatchlings are more social than adults, sticking together for safety.

Range: They are native to North America and are found from North Carolina to Florida to Texas.

Habitat: Freshwaters and very rarely in brackish waters. Larger males can be found in open water whereas smaller females tend to be closer to land.

Size: 91-360 kg (200.44 to 792.95 lb); 257-437 cm (101.18 to 172.05 in)

Life Span: 20-50 years in the wild; 20-70 years in captivity

Feeding: Carnivore

Reproduction: Polygynandrous. Alligators mate from April to early June. Eggs hatch 60 days after being laid. Sex is temperature dependent with females being hatched when temperature is 31C and lower and male being hatched when temperature is 33C or higher. At 32C, an even amount is hatched. Eggs are produced in multiple clutches with anywhere from 2-58 eggs laid at once. Females are highly maternal and protect the nest and can stay with her hatchlings up to a year. Sexual maturity is influenced by length instead of years, typically taking 10-20 years for females and 10-18 years for males.

Conservation Status: Least concern. Adapt readily to captivity given proper water parameters and space.

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Full Classification:

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